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South Korea’s Ruling Party Pushes Legal Reforms Critics Call a Threat to Democracy

A battle over judicial power erupts as President Lee’s party pushes reforms that could reshape democracy. Legal experts warn of dangerous overreach and political weaponization.

There is an open book on which something is written.
There is an open book on which something is written.

South Korea's ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) is pushing for controversial legal changes that critics claim threaten judicial independence. The proposed reforms include a special tribunal for insurrection cases and amendments to shield President Lee Jae Myung from criminal trials. Opponents argue these moves could weaken democracy by targeting political rivals and restricting legal oversight.

The DPK has drafted laws to halt criminal proceedings against a sitting president and raise the bar for overturning election results. These measures come as President Lee Jae Myung publicly backs pressure on the judiciary, suggesting his party holds an exclusive claim to moral authority. His stance has drawn criticism from legal experts who warn of overreach.

The proposed legal changes have deepened divisions over judicial independence in South Korea. If passed, the reforms would grant broader protections to President Lee while establishing new mechanisms for prosecuting political opponents. Legal experts warn the measures could reshape the balance of power between the government and the courts.

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